The Role of Implicit Bias in Society

By: Shruthika Araselvan

Implicit bias describes the unconscious association of stereotypes with certain groups of people. It is important to note that while these stereotypes are not always an accurate representation of a person’s true values or beliefs, they still affect people’s actions and attitudes. Research has shown that while the majority of people believe that they are unbiased, 85% actually hold biases. This does not mean that people are intentionally hiding their prejudices, but that they don’t realize they have them.

Implicit bias has shown to be a major cause of inequalities in the legal system, health care, education, and day to day interactions. People with implicit bias against African Americans are more likely to think of their non-weapon possessions as weapons. Police officers who harbor this bias also carry out the initial steps in law enforcement, causing this seemingly minor stereotype to launch a series of events that ends with unfair prison sentences and death penalties. In healthcare, various studies have found that physicians with implicit bias against African Americans are less likely to refer them for further care or prescribe pain medication. Implicit bias also plays a major role in education, contributing to gender gaps in certain fields. Young girls who exhibit the unconscious belief that women have a preference of language over math, are less likely to pursue careers in STEM.

It is important for people to become educated about their implicit biases. This can be done by first becoming aware of your biases. The Implicit Association Test (IAT) is an online test that evaluates a person’s biases by measuring a person’s reaction time when given different people/objects to sort into categories. While it is almost impossible to completely eliminate a person’s implicit bias, the effect can be reduced. People should make an attempt to be aware of the media they consume as it plays a significant role in forming stereotypes. Additionally, it can be helpful to have more contact with people you have bias against to help reduce this bias. It can also help to consider contrasting viewpoints and to view topics or ideas from multiple perspectives.

Above all, it is important to not be ashamed of your implicit bias. These biases stem from stereotypes that have been spread through society for years. They do not reflect your true beliefs or values. Instead, try to work towards making these biases more well-known in order to decrease their effect on society.